Advance Magazine
Summer 2022

President’s View

The Sacrifices of So Many

When writing to his prospective father-in-law, 19th century missionary Adoniram Judson sought permission to marry by asking, “[Can you] consent to part with your daughter early next spring, to see her no more in this world … for the sake of him who left his heavenly home, and died for her and for you; for the sake of perishing, immortal souls … and the glory of God?” Judson went on to describe their future missionary service with words like hardships, sufferings, distress, insult, and persecution.

From our earliest days, Baptist Mid-Missions missionaries have willingly and joyfully sacrificed for the sake of the gospel, setting an example for future generations of missionaries and nationals to follow. Recently, I had the opportunity to witness the fruit of such sacrifice in the Central African Republic, the birthplace of BMM.

William Haas baptizing in the Ubangi River
William Haas baptizing on the Ubangi River

Our founder, William Haas, died and was buried in African soil just four short years after BMM was founded. In the years since then, God has been blessing and building His church through the sacrificial efforts of missionaries and nationals alike.

The results of these sacrifices are truly incredible. Millions of souls have been saved! Tens of thousands of churches have been planted! Thousands of national pastors have been trained! All of this has been the work of God through the sacrifices of so many.

May their sacrifices stir our hearts and make us willing to sacrifice for the sake of souls as well.

Odle web1

Dr. Patrick Odle

In 2020, Dr. Patrick Odle became Baptist Mid-Missions’ ninth president. He came to his position with 26 years of pastoral experience and eight years as a BMM Council member, along with service as a vice president of Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary.

Related Pages

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Imagine what God could do through laser-focused prayers lifted by an army of praying warriors among our supporting churches.

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